Strengthening its dedication to the Stars of Karting racing series, Snap-on Tools Company announced the signing of an additional five-year title sponsorship of the series.
"Congratulations to the Stars of Karting series on a great four years of growth and excitement," said Snap-on Tools President Alan Biland. "Snap-on has enjoyed our association with the series and we’re proud to announce our renewed commitment to it. Continuing the sponsorship was a natural progression into a more in-depth relationship with the sport of karting, its drivers and fan base."
"Snap-on has been an amazing partner to us from the very beginning and instrumental in helping us become the premier North American Karting championship," said Brian Herta, founder and co-owner of the Stars of Karting series.
Bobby Rahal, co-owner of the Stars of Karting series, described the extended commitment as historic and an integral part of presenting world-class karting events around North America.
"I personally want to thank Al (Biland) for his commitment to those young drivers who look to the Snap-on Stars of Karting to provide them with the competitive environment needed to develop their craft," said Rahal.
Karting has developed over the years from a hobbyist pastime to an internationally recognized form of competitive racing. Stars of Karting and the entire sport have helped launch many careers of leading open-wheeled professional drivers and drivers of other popular racing types, including IndyCar Series driver Brian Herta, who is also a co-owner of the Stars of Karting series.
"Kart racing has quickly developed into a North American and global enthusiast favorite over the years," said Carl Johanson, Snap-on’s motorsports marketing manager. "As we continue our Snap-on Stars of Karting partnership for five more years, we hope to help maintain Stars’ place as the premier karting event."
As seen with the corporate interest in the sport, karting has grown from the grassroots racing of the ’50s into a consumer-friendly and extremely competitive form of racing. From New Zealand to Europe, South America to Canada, kart racing has a presence in almost every developed nation.
"I know I speak for all our drivers when I thank Snap-on for their significant involvement and commitment to the sport we love. This extension, along with the long-term commitment from the IRL, will ensure that we will achieve our growth potential and continue to be the place where the very best karters compete," said Herta.
Although the specifics of the sponsorship were not discussed, the previous relationship allowed Snap-on branding at all events and on all vehicles, as well as primary choice for sponsorships and advertising of Speed TV broadcasts. National event winners will also receive Snap-on tools as a primary award.
Paul Zalud, co-owner and president of the series said, "The fact that Snap-on is continuing to support us is an accomplishment for Stars, for our drivers and for the industry. I am very proud of our relationship with Snap-on, and the friendships with Snap-on management and all the dealers that show up to our events."